They have compact and affordable rooms (approximately $69 a night) in addition to a lobby with a full-service bar, games and plenty of charging stations.

2. Genuine customer service

Many travelers love Airbnb because they can ask their host for recommendations on where to go in the area. Hotels are educating and encouraging their employees to give tips to guests -- on where to go, eat, play, explore, etc.

3. Local Partnerships

Travelers want authentic local experiences -- thus the popularity in Airbnb. What can be more authentic than staying at a resident’s house?

Hotels are beginning to showcase their local authenticity by partnering with small/local businesses in their area.

4. Residential Style

Airbnb enables travelers to feel as if they actually live in the destination they’re visiting rather than feeling like a typical tourist in a cookie-cutter hotel room.

New hotels are now going for interior designs that give off a residential-feel that you might experience at an Airbnb stay.

Roost Apartment Hotel in Philadelphia features apartment-hotel rooms that allow the travelers to feel as if they actually lived downtown -- with the ability to cook, clean and lounge.

5. Digital platforms that make planning fun

An overwhelming portion of the population plan their trips online. Airbnb has created a fun online experience for travelers exploring their adventure options -- featuring maps, destination photos, etc.

Hotel brands like Soho Beach House have begun to develop apps and websites that showcase local content (on the region’s food, art, fashion, etc.).

Hotels are also partnering with start-ups -- to give guests access to digital platforms that give relevant and useful information on the destination.

Marriott International recently worked with a tour and activity-booking start-up PlacePass so their guests can see activities and tours that locals would recommend.